Mulenge Once Again Enters a Difficult Period: Shelling Targets Civilian Settlements and Livestock
Reports from the highlands of Mulenge, located in South Kivu Province in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), indicate that a coalition comprising FARDC forces, in collaboration with Burundian troops, Wazalendo fighters, and the FDLR armed group, launched attacks using explosive shells in areas inhabited by the Banyamulenge community, causing significant damage and killing large numbers of livestock.
According to credible information provided to Minembwe Capital News by local residents, the shells were reportedly launched using unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) during the night, following three days of relative calm compared to the preceding period of insecurity.
The area of Gakenke, situated a few kilometers from the town of Minembwe, was among the locations most heavily affected by the attacks. Reports indicate that at least 28 head of cattle belonging to Banyamulenge residents were killed when shells landed in the area.
Residents say the livestock belonged to different families, and their loss represents a major economic setback, particularly because cattle farming remains the foundation of both the local economy and the livelihoods of the people of Mulenge.
One resident who spoke to Minembwe Capital News stated:
“We had experienced a few days of relative calm. On Monday night, at around 11:00 p.m., we heard the sound of multiple explosions. By morning, we found many cattle dead, others injured, and the population gripped by fear.”
Reports further indicate that Gakenke was not the only area affected. Additional information suggests that shells also landed in several other parts of Minembwe, although the full extent of the damage in each location has not yet been independently confirmed.
Residents from the affected areas reported hearing repeated explosions throughout the night, prompting many people to flee their homes and seek refuge in nearby bushes and mountainous areas to avoid potential harm.
The attack came after a brief period of relative stability. On Saturday, Sunday, and Monday during the day, residents had begun resuming their daily activities, including livestock keeping and farming.
However, the situation reportedly changed after nightfall. Residents stated that around 11:00 p.m., the sound of drones was heard overhead, followed by shelling that struck various residential areas.
Analysts warn that continued attacks in civilian-populated areas could further worsen displacement, food insecurity, and psychological trauma among communities that have already endured the consequences of conflict for many years.
Residents of Mulenge are calling for all possible measures to be taken to strengthen security, protect civilians, and ensure that military operations do not harm non-combatants or their livestock.
Minembwe Capital News will continue to monitor developments and provide further updates as more information becomes available.